You can also cook it pilaf style, sautéeing it in some olive oil, along with onions and garlic, then add stock, and towards the end of the cook time (check the box), add other vegetables, such as some grilled asparagus, some roasted red peppers, perhaps some shrimp.

Yes, soup is the answer. Something as simple as a fresh made chicken soup. "Acini di pepe" translates as peppercorns which just refers to the shape. Carrots, celery, some real peppercorns and you are on your way.